A vending machine constantly monitors its parts and surroundings. It does so through several kinds of sensors.
A typical machine has several sensor groups: temperature in compartments and the boiler, product drop above the delivery bay, cup presence, door open, and – in coffee machines – water level and grounds bin fill. The controller reads them and allows sales, blocks them, or raises an alarm.
Sensors in snack machines
- Compartment temperature.
- Product drop.
- Door open.
- Spiral or motor position.
Sensors in coffee machines
- Boiler temperature.
- Water level or flow.
- Cup presence.
- Full grounds bin.
Sensors and telemetry
Sensor readings can feed into the operator's system for faster response. Browse devices on the page with vending machines (publisher's site).
FAQ
Do sensors need calibration? Some do, such as scales. The manufacturer sets the schedule.
What happens when a sensor fails? The controller may report an error and disable some functions.